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A night of discussion around youth mental health and substance use

Oak Bay News - 6/10/2018

A community conversation on youth mental health and substance use is coming to the Dave Dunnet Community Theatre at Oak Bay High.

As Liaison to Schools for Oak Bay Council, Coun. Michelle Kirby is organizing the event with the help of the Oak Bay High PAC Health and Wellness Committee, to address the struggles that Oak Bay youth are facing.

"I think there is a misconception that substance use and addiction are not an Oak Bay problem, when indeed it is," said Oak Bay's Liaison to Schools, Michelle Kirby. "This is an opportunity for parents, youth, and the community to talk about the epidemic levels of anxiety in youth today, and how many choose to turn to substance use as a coping mechanism."

On June 19 from 7 - 9 p.m., youth and parents are invited to come and learn about what resources are available, how to talk with family members about substance use, and ways to help reduce risks.

A line-up of panelists and special guests will speak to youth mental health and substance use issues, answer questions, and offer guidance.

The Hon. Minister of Education Rob Fleming will be there as a special guest speaker.

Reg Fleming, program counsellor and coordinator of the Island Health Discovery Youth and Family Centre; Cindy Andrew, the Helping Schools program consultant for the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research; and 18-year-old LGBTQ+ and mental health advocate, EJ Weston, are confirmed panelists.

Event: June 19, 7-9 p.m. at the Dave Dunnet Community Theatre, Oak Bay High. 2121 Cadboro Bay Rd.

The event is free and open to the public.